Responsible gambling tips

Set a limit and don’t exceed it

Take just your allocated amount of money

Gamble for the fun of it, not the money or the win

Don’t let gambling take over your life

DON’T LET THE GAME PLAY YOU

Most of the adult population of Victoria gamble, whether it be at a casino or the local hotel or club on bingo, the horses, sports events, keno, the pokies or some other game of chance.

For most people, gambling is a bit of lighthearted entertainment.

But for some people gambling can get out of control. They lose sight of the fact that gambling is a game and that games are designed so the gaming operator will eventually win.

People get into trouble with gambling because they often can’t stop betting and this often leads to losing all of their money and potentiallyruining their relationships with family and friends.

The key to being a responsible gambler is to stay in control and remember that gambling is just a game.

THE RESPONSIBLE GAMBLER

Is in control.

Sees gambling as entertainment not a job.

Doesn’t take gambling too seriously.

Only gambles with money set aside for entertainment, never with the money for rent or food.

Never borrows money to gamble, either from friends, money set aside for other things or credit cards.

Sets limits on the amount of time and money they will spend.

Sticks to these limits and walks away when they are reached.

Recognises that you can’t win in the long run and doesn’t try to chase a win.

Is relaxed and sociable.

Is aware of family and friends.

Is happy to take frequent breaks.

The responsible gambler doesn’t let the game play them.

Follow the 4 tips on the right and gamble responsibly.

WARNING SIGNS

People who are experiencing problems with their gambling lose sight of the fact that gambling is a game andnota way to make money.

Many problem gamblers try to win back what they have lost, ‘chase their losses’, rather than walk away when they have spent their budgeted amount. They get tunnel vision, focus only on their gambling and ignore family, friends and other responsibilities. Gambling is no longer fun.

How would you know if you have a problem?

Try answering these questions:

Yes No Have you ever skipped work or study to gamble?

Yes No Have you ever missed an important event so you could gamble?

Yes No Have you ever bet more than you could afford?

Yes No Have you ever used money set aside for food or bills to gamble?

Yes No Do you try to win back the money you have lost?

Yes No Have you been in an argument with your friends and family over gambling?

Yes No Have you ever gambled to escape from things that are causing you stress?

Yes No Do you find that you are gambling on your own more and more regularly?

If you have answered ‘yes’ to a number of these questions, Gambler’s Help can provide information and assistance.